Principal Scientist (PhD), Biophysics

ROLE SUMMARY

Pfizer Oncology R&D in La Jolla, California is seeking an accomplished Principal Scientist in Biophysics to join the Biochemistry and Quantitative Pharmacology group. The successful candidate will evaluate kinetics and thermodynamics of drug-protein interactions and protein dynamics. The successful candidate will operate with a high level of independence in providing biophysical data and insight as a part of multi-disciplined scientific research teams. The successful candidate will directly contribute to advance our cancer drug discovery portfolio at a technical and strategic level.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate for this position will:

Work independently as a discipline expert to characterize small molecule-protein interactions using label-free biophysical methods (SPR, ITC, thermal stability-based assays, MST, native MS)

Regularly represent the biophysics group on multi-disciplinary teams to provide scientific insights into kinetics and thermodynamics of protein-ligand interactions

Display growing knowledge and understanding of other disciplines relevant to early stage drug discovery

Mentor and train colleagues in biophysical methods

Identify and integrate emerging biophysical technologies to strengthen current capabilities within the group

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

PhD degree in Biophysics, Biochemistry or closely related field with 3-5 years of drug discovery experience in a pharmaceutical industrial or academic laboratory setting.

Demonstrated expertise in the use of label-free biophysical methods (SPR, ITC, MST, Native MS and thermal stability assays such as DSF) for characterization of protein-ligand interactions

Hands on experience in high-throughput screening and plate-based pharmacology

Experience in handing a diverse range of recombinant proteins as tools in biochemical or biophysical assays

Share our core values of courage, excellence, equity, and joy that form the basis of our collaborative scientific culture

Outstanding publication record reflecting scientific drive and creativity across multiple disciplines

Excellent oral and written communication skills, excellent interpersonal skills to facilitate knowledge sharing and scientific discussions, a team player

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience in fragment or small-molecule screening using biophysical methods

Experience in cellular thermal stability assays (CETSA) for target engagement is desirable but not required

Knowledge and understanding in the area of enzymology, mechanisms of drug action and structural biology

Relevant experience in the area of difficult-to-drug targets would be valued

ROLE PARTNERSHIPS

Interacts with scientists from multiple scientific and technical disciplines within Pfizer (biochemistry, structural biology and protein sciences, tumor biology, chemistry) at the La Jolla site as well as other Pfizer locations. May interact with scientist from contract research organizations on a need basis.

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Other Job Details:

• Eligible for Relocation Package
• Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus

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Research and Development